Vick Sentenced, But Is It Enough

I was driving this morning when I heard the news about Michael Vick. I was glad to hear he will serve some time, but disappointed in the sentence. I guess when it comes to animal stuff, it never feels to me like the crime fits the punishment. I have seen people mutilate animals and serve no time at all. People who are able to kill and injure animals are scary to me. But I know that the judge dispensed his sentencing within the parameters of the law, and I will just have to settle for that.

In a Federal court today, Vick was sentenced to 23 months in jail for his role in dogfighting. While 23 months is close to maximum sentence for this crime (18 to 24 months is what is recommended), I have to say there still is a bad taste in my mouth. While Vick said he was sorry, he certainly hasn’t redeemed himself yet, at least in my eyes. It seems like a public figure wanting to redeem himself would have cracked dogfighting wide open, exposing the people and activities involved in the illegal sport, doing whatever it takes to make things right. Instead, we got Vick and some of his friends out of the arena, but the brutal sport will still go on unless someone speaks up and hands over names and locations of others involved.

To my disappointment, Vick has remained mum. Instead, he will quietly serve his 23 month sentence and could logistically get out after 80 percent of his sentence is served for good behavior. This could mean he could be ready, if not still under NFL suspension, for the 2009 season. Most leagues would probably consider him a liability, but there is no precedent for a player to return to the field after being in prison and out of the league for several seasons. He will be 30 years old by then.

I agree. At the very least though, he will serve time and still has to face charges in Virginia. The judge there could add additional sentencing or could simply cite time served on the federal charges. Either way, Vick is being punished, although perhaps not to the satisfaction of most animal lovers.

About the Author

Cathy M. Rosenthal has more than 25 years of experience in public relations, communications and humane education in the animal welfare field. She has worked for local humane societies and national humane groups, appearing on hundreds of television and radio news and public affairs programs to address animal issues. She currently is a consultant for local and national animal welfare organizations, writing grants, annual reports and other marketing materials. She is also the author of several children's books about animals.